Der Vorsteher des Eidgenössischen Departements für auswärtige Angelegenheiten (EDA), Bundesrat Ignazio Cassis, informierte den Bundesrat eingehend über die aktuellen Entwicklungen in militärischer, humanitärer und diplomatischer Hinsicht.
The Head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA), Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, briefed the Federal Council in detail on the latest military, humanitarian and diplomatic developments.
Since the resumption of hostilities on 18 March 2025, over 3,500 people have been killed and more than 600,000 displaced again. The supply situation is untenable. Although humanitarian access has been partially restored since 19 May, it remains inadequate.
On 21 May, the Federal Council decided to grant a total of CHF 10 million to five humanitarian organisations to support Palestinians affected by the conflict in the occupied Palestinian territory. A further CHF 10 million was provided to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) for its programmes in Jordan, Lebanon and Syria.
Negotiations on a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas are progressing slowly. Without the complete and unconditional release of all hostages by Hamas, a lasting ceasefire is unlikely to materialise. Neither the UN or other multilateral organisations nor individual states. However, diplomatic efforts – including by Switzerland – continue unabated.
The Federal Council makes the following three demands of both parties to the conflict:
- Humanitarian access the top priority
Humanitarian aid must be provided immediately, unhindered and in sufficient quantities, in accordance with international humanitarian law. When it comes to humanitarian aid, there is no room for discretion: this is an obligation under international law and applies to both parties to the conflict. As an occupying power, Israel has a special responsibility under the Geneva Conventions to protect civilians. - Immediate ceasefire and release of hostages
An immediate ceasefire is essential. The Federal Council also calls for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas. Violence does not solve conflicts – it prolongs suffering and prevents any prospect of peace. - Stepping up of diplomatic efforts
Switzerland urges all parties involved to work seriously and constructively towards a successful solution through diplomatic means. Switzerland is itself actively engaged at an international level in finding a political solution to the conflict. It is assuming its responsibility to this end, among other things by contributing to the work of the Global Alliance for the Implementation of the Two-State Solution and participating in the preparations for the upcoming UN conference on the Middle East to be held in New York in June, which Mr Cassis is expected to attend. Launched in 2024 and coordinated by Saudi Arabia, the EU and Norway, the Global Alliance brings together over 50 countries and international organisations. Switzerland also took part in its previous meeting in Rabat in May. The aim of these endeavours is to open up political prospects. In the absence of realistic alternatives, the two-state solution remains the only viable path to a just and lasting peace in accordance with international law.
Address for enquiries:
FDFA Communication Bundeshaus West 3003 Bern +41 58 460 55 55 kommunikation@eda.admin.ch
